The 1973 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide marks a real turning point in the marque's history. Electric starters arrived on the big V-twins in 1965, turning the heavy cruiser from a leg-testing kickstart machine into an accessible tourer, and 1966 brought the revised "Shovelhead" engine - named for the distinctive shape of its rocker covers - with a larger aluminium cylinder head good for roughly 5 extra horsepower over the old Panhead. In 1973 the model was officially christened "Electra Glide", one of the most recognisable names in motorcycling, riding on a new frame built around a large 12-volt battery and a modified primary cover for that electric starter.

This was the ultimate American touring machine of its era, and the Shovelhead engine it carried would stay in production for another 18 years. Early-1970s examples like this one are genuinely sought after today for their classic styling and authentic riding character - and this particular bike is a time capsule from that golden era, having spent years tucked away rather than ridden.

Condition

This is a genuine barn find that has sat in storage for years. The headline detail is an odometer reading of just 365 km - but that reading cannot be confirmed as genuine, so the real mileage should be treated as unknown rather than assumed to be accurate. There is no significant damage, only a few small rust spots. The engine turns over and starts, but as with any long-stored motorcycle it will need a proper carburettor clean, a flush of the fuel system, a fresh battery, attention to the tyres and a full fluid change before it should be ridden. The bodywork and chassis show light surface rust and patina consistent with long-term storage, the original electrical system should be checked over, and the original tyres show some cracking from age. Matching numbers are not confirmed on this example.

Market Comparison

A fully restored, low-mileage 1973 Shovelhead Electra Glide can fetch roughly $12,000 to $18,000 on today's market. That gap between this project's starting bid and a finished example's value is exactly what makes it interesting: buy right, invest the restoration work, and there is real room to come out ahead - though as with any project bike, the eventual outcome depends on what the engine and frame reveal once work begins.

Known Issues / Transparency

We want to be upfront about the condition before you bid:

• Odometer reading of 365 km cannot be confirmed as genuine - treat the real mileage as unknown.

• Non-running as offered: the engine turns over and starts, but has not been serviced or ridden - budget for a full recommissioning (fuel system, battery, tyres, fluids) before use.

• The aftermarket exhaust is corroded and damaged; the original exhaust is not included.

• Light surface rust and patina on the frame and various chrome/plated parts from long-term storage.

• Original tyres show cracking from age and will need replacing.

• Matching numbers are not confirmed on this example.

• A clear certificate of title is believed to be present - please verify this directly before bidding.

What Is Included?

• The motorcycle as described and pictured

• Original owner's manual

• Documentation as available (please verify title status before bidding)

Why This Is a Smart Opportunity

This is a rare, honestly-described way into Shovelhead ownership at an entry-level price. The low, if unverified, mileage and light cosmetic condition suggest an engine that has not been thrashed, and for anyone with the mechanical skills - or the right specialist on speed-dial - to bring it back to life, the gap to a $12,000-$18,000 restored example is real headroom. This is a project for someone who wants to do the work, not a turnkey classic.

This motorcycle is sold in the condition it is in, without any warranty. Good luck with your bidding.